For the fourth year in a row, Ukraine marks its Independence Day in the midst of war, continuing its fight for sovereignty. As human suffering deepens, it is increasingly important for the Ukrainian people that, alongside other means of support, we also advocate for a sustainable peace and uphold Ukraine’s autonomy in any future peace negotiations. These are historic, pivotal moments that will shape the future of all of Europe.
The United for Ukraine event will start in Senate Square at 3 pm. The event will be hosted by reporter Justas Stasevskij.
Singer-songwriter Yona will perform at the event, singing Ukrainian songs translated into Finnish. The Ukrainian national anthem will be performed by Ukrainian singers. The event will conclude with the Finlandia hymn. Representatives of the Finnish government and the diplomatic corps are expected to attend the event. The bells of Helsinki Cathedral will ring for a minute to mark Ukraine’s independence.
As in previous years, Senate Square will be filled with Ukraine’s national flower, the sunflower, during the event.
Tangible Aid Is Also Needed in Ukraine
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), approximately 12.7 million people in Ukraine are in need of humanitarian assistance, including 1.9 million children – 15% of those affected.
“Fears have escalated at an alarming rate. Children are not only afraid of war, but increasingly of spiders, dogs, loud noises, and getting lost. Every other consultation I conduct is related to fears, sleep difficulties, or nightmares. On the other hand, children seem to value time spent together more than ever”, says school psychologist Alina Symonenko.
The UNITED FOR UKRAINE event offers everyone the opportunity to support Ukraine by donating to Finn Church Aid (FCA) and the Ukrainian Association in Finland. Donations to FCA have contributed to repairing and refurnishing schools, establishing digital learning centres, providing psychological first aid training for teachers, and supporting students facing mental health challenges.
This event is organised by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Helsinki, the Ukrainian Association in Finland, and Mothersforpeace, in cooperation with the City of Helsinki, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Finland.